The Golden Talent Awards were founded in 1996 to recognize and honor individual participants in Heifer International programs for outstanding achievements. Winners have gone beyond what is requested and passed on more gift animals than required, served their community in exceptional ways, or achieved outstanding success with their project.

The Golden Talent Award honors achievements, as well as giving an added incentive for project participants to give their best efforts in helping not only their families, but also their communities.

Each year, Heifer International Foundation gives out 25 Golden Talent Awards in the amount of $1000. Of this cash grant, $800 goes to the project community to carry out a needed project, such as bringing running water to a village. The remaining $200 goes to the winning family.